If you’re unhappy with the colour of your teeth but you can’t seem to get rid of those pesky stains, then this modern innovation in dentistry may be just what you’re looking for. Brought to you by Philips, Zoom Teeth Whitening is an in-chair tooth bleaching procedure clinically proven to whiten teeth up to eight shades in one session. It’s important to note that the second layer of your teeth is what holds the colour so this treatment will not erode the outside of your teeth.
How does Zoom Teeth Whitening Work?
Before you can begin your Zoom Teeth Whitening treatment, Dr Kelly Tse will perform a teeth cleaning and scale first to remove all the plaque and ensure your teeth are the only thing being whitened. Next, your lips and gums will be prepped with rubber seals of a gel to protect them from the bleaching agent. The whitening gel is then applied on the front surfaces of your top and bottom rows of teeth and the high intensity UV activating light will be switched on. This process will be repeated 3 times throughout the course of your session.
Dr Kelly Tse may also vary the concentration levels of the UV light that activates the gel, so if you are feeling some discomfort, ask her to adjust according to your needs.
The safety precautions, correct technique and quality of the bleaching system will all contribute to how comfortable your experience is and how successful the outcome will be. Most patients will experience minimal pain and discomfort during this procedure, though if you are feeling some sensitivity, a desensitising gel may be applied.
The treatment itself usually only takes about 45 minutes, however, you should allow longer for pre and post-consultation services. For sensitive teeth, you may also experience a longer interval between applications.
To enjoy the long-lasting effects of your teeth whitening procedure, there are a few things you’ll have to avoid for at least two weeks. This includes smoking, eating foods that will stain your teeth and drinking coffee, red wine or soft drinks that are purple, pink, blue and other bold colours. Enhance the effects by continuing to floss daily and use a soft-bristled toothbrush with anti-sensitivity toothpaste to brush twice a day.
Can I Get Zoom Teeth Whitening?
Due to the bleaching agents used for Zoom Teeth Whitening, not everyone may be a good candidate for the procedure. Therefore, a pre-treatment oral exam is carried out by Dr Kelly Tse. She will be searching for gum disease and your level of sensitivity and any restored teeth. The problem with tooth restorations, whether they be by filling, veneer, or crown, is that the bleaching agent will not be able to whiten it.
If you are under the age of 18, have a known allergy to peroxide or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding these are the main reasons why Philips Zoom may not be for you.
How Long Does Zoom Teeth Whitening Last?
Most patients will enjoy long-lasting results for up to 6 months before they need to book their first touch-up which can be done with your usual 6-month oral exam check-up. However, the length of time the Zoom Teeth Whitening treatment will last heavily relies upon your lifestyle and diet.
Although the treatment offers immediate results, these differences can also be affected quite easily if you do not follow the post-procedure care including the above-mentioned food, drinks and activities that need to be avoided. The first 48 hours following the procedure are the most important with the enamel remaining porous and susceptible to staining.
To maintain those beautiful pearly whites, the new Philips Zoom Pen is now available which is a handy way to touch-up. Whitening toothpastes are also available, but be careful as some can be very abrasive, and others don’t taste nice.
If you have any questions give our friendly team at Tooth Crusader Wolli Creek a call on (02) 8097 1838 to receive additional information and to book your consultation.